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Territorial Energy Decentralisation and Ecosystem Services in Italy: Limits and Potential

Author

Listed:
  • Paolo De Pascali

    (Department of Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Saverio Santangelo

    (Department of Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Francesca Perrone

    (Department of Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy)

  • Annamaria Bagaini

    (Department of Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy)

Abstract

This article focuses on the complex relationships between energy processes and ecosystem services. It highlights the conflicts between them due to the anthropocentric value that characterizes their interrelationship. The article reports the initial results of ongoing research on energy decentralization processes in Italy, examining the Italian districts heating performance, concerning ecosystem provisioning and regulating services. The analysis is based on a sample of more than 150 Italian district-heating systems. Contrary to studies that positively evaluate processes of energy decentralization, the results of the research show some critical factors and impacts. An efficiency gap between districts heating and traditional energy systems emerged. The data processed show a critical situation in the development of local networks, highlighting that the decentralized energy model is not deeply rooted in the local area and is poorly characterized by shared governance, which instead would benefit from the integration of ecosystem services. The significant presence of large energy groups and the considerable use of fossil sources in Italy reduces the effectiveness of the decentralization of energy systems. The article presents some conclusive considerations, which outline some general guidelines for proceeding towards a more correct relationship with ecosystem services and greater integration with the territories.

Suggested Citation

  • Paolo De Pascali & Saverio Santangelo & Francesca Perrone & Annamaria Bagaini, 2020. "Territorial Energy Decentralisation and Ecosystem Services in Italy: Limits and Potential," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(4), pages 1-14, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:4:p:1424-:d:320863
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    2. Zardo, L. & Granceri Bradaschia, M. & Musco, F. & Maragno, D., 2023. "Promoting an integrated planning for a sustainable upscale of renewable energy. A regional GIS-based comparison between ecosystem services tradeoff and policy constraints," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 217(C).

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